Kodenchery, Kozhikode: The organisers are ready to launch the Malabar River Festival 2026 on Thursday (July 30) at Pulikkayam in Kodenchery, Kozhikode, as the 12th edition of Kerala’s premier white-water kayaking championship gets underway.
The four-day adventure sports festival, which will continue until August 2, will bring together top paddlers from India and abroad for intense competitions on the challenging waters of the Chalipuzha and Iruvanjhipuzha rivers near Thusharagiri.
Visitors planning to experience the festival can explore this complete guide to Malabar River Festival 2026, covering travel information, event details, venue information and everything travellers need to know before visiting the championship.
Kerala Agriculture Minister T. Siddique will inaugurate the festival at Pulikkayam, while Tourism and Culture Minister P. C. Vishnunadh will preside over the inaugural ceremony.
Organised by the Kerala Tourism Department through the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS), the Malabar River Festival has established itself as one of Asia’s major white-water kayaking championships, attracting professional athletes, adventure enthusiasts and visitors to the scenic Malabar region.
MRF 2026 to provide pathway for Indian national team selection
A major highlight of this year’s edition is that the Malabar River Festival 2026 will host the Indian Nationals Ranking Tournament, giving the event added significance for Indian kayakers.
According to organisers, performances at the ranking tournament will play an important role in the national selection process. Indian athletes who finish among the top positions in the ranking tournament will secure a chance to join the National Team training camp. Furthermore, selectors will assess their performances during the camp and then finalise the Indian Nationals team.
For athletes dreaming of representing India at the international level, MRF 2026 will serve as an important platform and the first step towards earning a place in the national squad.
Final preparations completed at Pulikkayam
As the opening ceremony approaches, organisers have completed all final preparations at Pulikkayam and nearby areas, ensuring the venue is ready to host the four-day festival.. Organisers have put in place safety measures, rescue teams, technical officials, athlete facilities and volunteer support to ensure the smooth conduct of the championship.
The competitions will feature exciting events including Kayak Cross and Downriver Time Trial, with participation from experienced paddlers as well as emerging athletes.
Thusharagiri ready to welcome adventure travellers
Beyond the competitions, the Malabar River Festival 2026 will also showcase the natural beauty of Thusharagiri and the Western Ghats. The region’s scenic landscapes and waterfalls make it an attractive destination for visitors arriving for the festival.
The nearby Thusharagiri Waterfalls, known as Kerala’s Snow Mountain, adds to the appeal of Kodenchery as a tourism destination, offering travellers an opportunity to explore one of Kozhikode’s most popular natural attractions along with the kayaking championship.
Pulikkayam gears up for another historic edition
The festival continues to strengthen Kerala’s position as a leading adventure tourism destination by bringing international-level white-water kayaking action to the state.
Meanwhile, athletes are gearing up to tackle the rapids and visitors are preparing for four days of excitement, while Pulikkayam will once again showcase India’s white-water kayaking action on a grand stage.
With the 12th edition bringing together international participation, national-level selection opportunities and thrilling river action, Malabar River Festival 2026 promises to be one of the most significant editions in the event’s history.
